FIRE SAFETY
Grenfell Final Report Released :
A Landmark Conclusion to Seven Years of Investigations
» SEPTEMBER SAW THE LONGawaited release of the final Grenfell Report , concluding seven years of extensive investigations into the 2017 tragedy at Grenfell Tower in which 72 people died . The landmark report represents a significant milestone for the construction industry , the regulatory landscape , and for all those affected by the Grenfell tragedy . The release highlights the need for continued progress and reforms in building safety , a mission to which the Door & Hardware Federation ( DHF ) remains deeply committed .
“ The Report notes that safety of people in the built environment ultimately depends on the skill , knowledge and experience of those engaged in the construction industry , explains DHF ’ s General Manager & Secretary , Michael Skelding . “ The Inquiry identified serious deficiencies in all three at Grenfell Tower . There has recently been progress in this area , including the creation of the Industry Competence Steering Group , responsibility for which has now moved from the Construction Leadership Council to the Building Safety Regulator . This work , beginning in 2018 , was aimed at enhancing the skills , knowledge , and accountability of professionals across the construction sector .”
The Inquiry ’ s recommendations will enable further measures to be taken
‘ As we reflect on the findings of the Grenfell Report , our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy .’
to address the industry ’ s failings . The fact that the Inquiry is now complete also clears the way for the law to take its course regarding the culpability of individuals and companies involved in the disaster .
“ The failures in specifying , installing and maintaining the fire and smoke resisting flat entrance doorsets at Grenfell are spelled out in the Grenfell Report ; lack of competence was clearly the major issue ,” continues Michael , “ and it is here where DHF sees its principal role , with its continuing development of training and support for specialists in door technology , including fire-resisting and emergency escape doors .”
Training , particularly of installers and maintainers , will remain the mainstay of DHF ’ s contribution to building safety . Courses are developed to assist in the creation of a competent workforce and awareness training for clients can also be offered .
“ The release of the Grenfell Report is not the end , but a critical step forward in the journey to ensure that a tragedy like Grenfell never happens again ,” concludes Michael . “ DHF remains dedicated to working alongside industry partners , regulators , and the government to implement the necessary reforms and continue driving improvements in building safety .
“ As we reflect on the findings of the Grenfell Report , our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy . DHF stands firm in its commitment to advancing fire safety , advocating robust standards , and ensuring that the lessons learned from this tragedy lead to real and lasting change .”
www . dhfonline . org . uk
28
SEPTEMBER 2024
locksmithjournal . co . uk Issue Takeover